Hope for the Holland's
Thank you for your Prayers and Support!!!
Update Page
Candie Holland posted the following on the “Praying for Jason Holland” group page on Facebook
Jason Holland January 22nd:
We had a great afternoon today, we went to have lunch at the Cocoa Beach Pier and took a walk down the beach. Watching my little girls chase the seagulls and laughing is so much fun. I love them so much and charish these moments. I'm going to beat this disease!
Jason Holland January 17th:
Finished another round of Chemo on Friday and I feel that I'm bouncing back quicker and quicker with each round. I don't know if that means I'm getting use to it or if it means its not as effective as it once was. They have reduced the doseage by 25% so I'm able to work through it, I wonder if I'm gambling with my li...fe. I am so consumed with family and work that I don't spend much time thinking about it. At times you can't help but to wonder what the future holds good or bad. Looking forward to a good week.
January 13th: It's been almost 8 months since Jason was originally diagnosed and 5 surgeries and 8 rounds of chemo later everyday is still as difficult as the previous. Cancer doesn't get easier to deal with, it doesn't give you a vacation from it, it's always there. Jason has been and continues to be so strong through it all. As... time goes on, some people forget what we are going through on a daily basis and it just gets super frustrating at times. We are doing all that we can as a family to hold it all together and the smallest of things could bring the walls tumbling down. Please keep us in your prayers.
January 10th: It's truly amazing how much life you can pack into a week when you know that the next one will leave you debilitated. This week is chemo week and as always, I'm sure it will be a challenging one. We will do our best next week to make up for the crap that faces us this week.
Jason Holland January 2nd, 2011:
I'm just now getting over the side effects from last weeks chemo. It just now feels like a new year but in the same sentence I've been here before. You know its not the Cancer that hurts you, its the drugs they give you to fight it. I understand why people opt out of chemo and take quality of life over length of life.... You couldn't understand until you've been there. For now it is still Chemo as planned. Happy New Year?
December 28th: Jason started chemo again today for the next 12 weeks. We are hoping and praying that we can better manage the side effects this time since we kinda know what to expect. They did change one of the drugs and took him off of Erbitux, but added Avastin. Praying that the next 12 weeks goes by quick and is much easier than our last go around this summer.
Jason Holland December 21st:
7 months fighting cancer and I am back to work full time and feeling better everyday. I am enjoying work and realize how rewarding it is and how much I enjoy working with my clients. 8am-6pm everyday is taking its toll, I'm exhausted each night. Between work and Christmas shopping for the family it feels that there ...are not enough hours in the day. I'm starting chemo on the December 28th for another 3 months but plan on working and making it through it. Sorry for not updating or posting sooner, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.
December 4th: We've been awful with the updates lately, so I apologize to everyone. Lack of sleep, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain are Jason's main concerns right now. Seems like these are all side effects of the lack of liver, so we are just trying to remain positive. He will begin chemo again the week af...ter Christmas in order to get any cancer that the scans can't see. After 2-3 months of chemo, we will be headed back to TX to meet with thoracic surgeon regarding surgery to remove the lung tumors. Keep prayin'.
November 26th: Jason is progressing well, his incision has healed very nicely. Still lots of ups and downs with the pain and bowels, and trying to function on only 30% liver. If anybody has any high protein recipes, send'em my way! We are trying to grow us a liver people
Jason Holland November 13th:
The doctors told me today they did not think I was going to make to this 3rd surgery but didn't want to tell me and cause any emotional stress. They said they were very surprised that my liver has responded so well and it will do most of its growing over the next 3 months, so that means lots of protein and no fat diet.... Thanks for all your prayers and support. This battle is far from over but we are getting their one day at a time. I will be going back on chemo for another 3 months starting in December and then we will focus on the lungs.
Jason Holland November 13th:
I am out of the hospital and in a hotel as of this afternoon. The doctors opened up some of incision to drain the fluid out then stitched it up with 26 stitches this morning. Its not infected so everything looks good as of now. I have follow up appt in couple days then hopefully I will be released to go home to see m...y family. I am extremely home sick. I have been and still am on a lot of pain killers so I apologize for not responding to some of the posts and calls. Its really hard to maintain my focus and even complete a sentence.
November 9th: Pain city today people! Jason is doing so well in trying to be up and moving around, even though it is painful every step of the way. The incision had to be re glued today as it was popping open in places and is "leaking". He is such a trooper. Please keep the prayers coming.
November 5th: Just met with neurologist regarding a complication that developed after the surgery. Jason has suffered nerve damage, numbness, and partial paralysis in his right hand. They think this is due to the positioning they had him in for an extended period of time during the surgery. More tests to follow to determine what exactly is happening in his hand/arm.
November 5th: Wow....it's pain city here in Houston today. Jason has managed to get up and move around a little, but is feeling constant pain, nauseau, itchiness, and pain in his right arm. Surgery does strange things to your body.
November 4th: We are now in the surgical oncology ICU for the night. Jason's in alot of pain, but was coherent enough to ask me to share the pics of his newest battle scar. He is so strong. I just wish all of you could witness the strength and determination in this man for yourselves.....it's truly amazing. I'm so blessed to hav...e him as my husband and best friend
Jason Holland November 3rd:
The results are in...I am having surgery tomorrow morning that should last 6-8 hours. The cancer is stable and has not spread. This news is as good as we could have hoped for. Ultimately I am still in the fight and that feels good. I'm not ready to give up or have our hope taken away. Thanks to all your supoort and... prayers, they are apparently being heard and granted
Jason Holland November 3rd:
The trade off for all this risk, pain, and sickness from chemo is that I will get as many useful years as possible and in return I will give up my youth, taste buds, hair, strength, and my wish to grow old, and to join a seniors bowling league with my wife
Jason Holland November 3rd:
If there were ever a time to need a wish it will be today and tomorrow. I had to look my kids in the face before leaving and ask them to remember me and remember how much fun and love we share. There is a 33% chance of death following this operation. I hope no ever has to look thier family in the face and tell them ...goodbye. In the race of life I have become an unwilling finalist.
Jason Holland November 3rd:
I am meeting with the surgeons today to get the results from all my new scans. I never thought I would be saying if the results are good then surgery will follow tomorrow, you would think that if the results are good then no surgery is needed but that's not the case. Hopefully they will be removing 80% of the liver wh...ich contains all the cancer, if the cancer has spread to the good portion then there is nothing more they can do. So many emotions are running through me right now.
Jason Holland October 26th:
Nothing new to report, I am just counting down the days to the final liver surgery which is in about a week. This will be last procedure on the liver and they will be removing about 80% of the liver. The minimum to sustain life is 20% and then hopefully it will grow back cancer free. I will not know for sure if they... can do the surgery until they run all new scans and if everything is okay the surgery will follow the next day or so
Jason Holland October 10th:
We are having some good days which are turning into some good weeks. Enjoying Brock's football and Bella's cheerleading, its almost like we forgot about everything that is happening....You can get busy living or get busy dying and we choose the LIVING!
October 3rd: Home from the ER visit last night. Much better today, thank goodness. It's like a rollar coaster this ride we are on.
October 1st: Jason not feeling well all day today. Fever, vomiting, and just general pain all over. Please say a prayer for him tonite that he feels better tomorrow and that his liver is behaving and growing as it should
Jason Holland September 24th:
I want everyone to know that I posted this information directly from the American Cancer Society website to educate people about this disease. I do not feel defeated or depressed based on this information, actually it's quite the opposite. I want people to know this disease can affect anyone at any age, not just 50+; ...in fact, it will affect 1 in 19 people on average. I will make it through this and I want as many people as possible to know how common and deadly this disease is as it doesn't get as much press as Breast or Lung or other types of cancer. But, it is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed and the 2nd leading cause of cancer related deaths. It can be found early and it can be 100% preventable. Don't wait for symptoms to appear to get checked, it will be too late at that point. Don't let doctors tell you that you're too young to worry because I'm living proof that's not true. Just educate yourself. I just want to bring awareness.
Jason Holland September 23rd:
Colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the U.S. The American Cancer Society's most recent estimates for the number of colorectal cancer cases in the U.S. are for 2010:102,900 new cases of colon cancer 49,470 in men and 53,430 in women the lifetime risk in men for developing c...olorectal cancer is about 1 in 19 (5.2%). This risk is slightly lower in women 1 in 20. Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer when both sexes are combined. It is expected to cause about 51,370 deaths (26,580 in men and 24,790 in women) during 2010.
Jason Holland September 23rd:
5-year Survival Rate
by Stage 1 74%,
2A 67%,
2B 59%,
2C 37%,
...3A 73%,
3B 46%,
3C 28%,
4 6%. I have stage 4, 6% survival rate 6,000 out of 100,000 people diagnosed are still alive 5 years after being diagnosed. A colonoscopy can quickly diagnose this disease and if found early this is preventable. I had a change in bowel movement and sense of urgency to go but never really had anything pass and still felt the need to go, bleeding, and stomach cramps. These symtoms only occur with advanced stages. I ignored these symptoms for about 6 months thus giving the cancer plenty of time to spread to my liver and lungs.
September 21st: Liver Surgery #2 completed and went well. No surprises, but lots of pain and discomfort as they went in on his right side, through his ribs to get to the main vein in the liver. Our focus right now is growing that liver
September 20th: Back at the hotel with a husband who is in alot of pain, nauseated, and irritated. So far, liver surgery #2, so good.
September 20th: Jason is out of surgery and in recovery right now. I haven't seen him yet but dr said surgery went as planned. They are keeping him in PACU for observation for the next 4-6 hours. Thank u all for all the prayers. GOD IS LISTENING!
September 18th: Leaving on a jet plane tomorrow am first thing...headin' out to Liver Surgery #2 on Monday
September 16th: Have had a busy week and not much time to update.....Jason still has the wound vac on from his first liver surgery. It looks like the infection is clearing up slowly but surely. We are heading back to TX (our second home now it seems like) on Sunday for Liver Surgery #2. This one is supposed to take 4-6 hours to complete. Day by day, step by step, we will fight this thing until it’s gone. HEADSTRONG!plete. Day by day, step by step, we will fight this thing until it's gone. HEADSTRONG!
September 15th: (Jason Holland posted the following): I have a loving wife and kids, the best parents/family ever, and amazing friends. I have and am facing one of my biggest fears in life which is losing mine and not being here for my family. I have accepted that GOD has a plan and everything happens for a reason and I feel so FREE of everything. FREE of expectations, pressure, stress, fear, judgment. The most important things in life are not things, ALL WE NEED IS LOVE!
September 12th: Jason is safe at home and still in some pain. He has a home health nurse that is now coming every 2 days to change out his incision dressing and wound vacuum. It's attached to his incision and constantly pumping out any fluid or infection. He is on a strict high protein, low fat diet....so if anybody has any great high protein recipies or ideas, please inbox them to me. We are also making protein shakes FREQUENTLY! Next flight to TX is one week from today for liver surgery Round #2! high protein recipies or ideas, please inbox them to me. We are also making protein shakes FREQUENTLY! Next flight to TX is one week from today for liver surgery Round #2!
September 9th: (Jason Holland posted the following): I'm flying home tomorrow at noon. I'm so excited to get out of the hospital after 11 days in the same room and same hospital bed. Can't wait to see my kids and beautiful wife. I'll be home just in time to see Bella cheer at Brock's football game on Saturday.t I do with this company. Its amazing how quick they can cast you asi
September 6th: (Jason Holland posted the following) Today they completely opened up the incision and packed it full gauze that is soaked in antibiotic fluid. It was extremley painful. They did NOT give me any anesthetic or local and used scissors to cut me open. I yelled the entire time, it kinda freaked out my mom to see what they were doing to me. The infection is... clearing up and they plan on placing a vacuum on it tommorrow. They may release me in couple days and I will have a home health nurse come and pack the incision and apply the vacum at home until it is no longer needed. They said they can attach the vacum to me and I will carry it around kinda like my chemo pump. They are going the leave the incision wide open and allow it to heal from the inside out. I have CAT scans scheduled for tomorrow, hopefully good news will follow. Thanks to everyone for all your support and prayers, I don't feel alone in this process because so many of you have reached out and helped in your own special ways.
September 4th: (Jason Holland posted the following) I'm already missing Candie, she just left to go home and I'm still in the hospital. This morning the doctors cut most of the incision open because it is infected and they are trying to drain it to control the infection. Tomorrow they may open it up all the way and place a vacum on it to suck all the fluids out. Don'...t know when I'm going to be released, they have to get this infection under control so it doesn't spread into the liver. I'm praying this doesn't delay or stop the other surgeries.
September 4th: Still in the hospital, J's still in lots of pain. This morning the doctors had to reopen the top portion of his incision to allow it to drain as there was some fluid collection under the incision. On the agenda today.....COLLEGE FOOTBALL, GO GATORS!
September 2nd: Jason was up and walking around today...YAY! Still working on the pain management part, but he's eating, moving around, and still giving me a hard time. ; ) I actually crawled in his hospital bed with him this afternoon because he said it would make him feel better. We are going to get through this with all your prayers and support!
September 1st: Lots of pain for Jason today. They are working on getting the right dosage in the right time increments, so that he is pain free but not so doped up. Jason was able to sit up and stand up today, but no walking yet. We'll work on that tomorrow. He was finally able to have liquids tonite after more than 48 hours with...out any food or drink. The prayers are working!
August 31st: Jason is out of surgery and all went as planned. He is still under anesthesia and epidural, but in good spirits and thankful for AWESOME doctors. The doctor said the chemo had a "tremendous" effect on the tumors in the liver. With God, love, and all of your support....we will get through this....IT"S GONNA HAPPEN!
August 31st: Was in the chapel praying while J's in surgery and this is what I saw...
WHAT CANCER CANNOT DO
it cannot cripple Love, it cannot shatter Hope, it cannot corrode Faith, it cannot destroy Peace, it cannot kill Friendship, it
cannot suppress Memories, it cannot silence Courage, it cannot inv...ade the Soul, it cannot stead Eternal Life, it cannot
conquer the Spirit. CANCER IS SO LIMITED!
August 30th: Tomorrow Jason will be having the first of three major liver surgeries at MD Anderson in Texas. We are a ball of nerves, but have said our prayers and know that if He brings you to it, He will bring you through it!
August 25th: After a long day with the good doctors at MDA, we have found out that the 1st of 3 liver surgeries is a GO!!!! Jason will have surgery next Tuesday, August 31st to remove the first portion of his liver. The chemo has been effective and reduced the size of the tumors in his liver and lungs. There is no more cancer showing in his colon or pelvis. GOD IS GOOD!
August 25th: We feel like we've won Round 1 (chemo), now on to battle Round 2 (surgery). The Chief of Liver Surgery will be performing the surgery and said that Jason has a good chance of making it through all 3 surgeries and beating the odds stacked against him. All 3 surgeries should be completed on the liver over the course of the next 9-12 weeks as long as there are no complications. Don't stop praying now!
August 24th: We have faith and we are strong. We will pull through this no matter what! THANK YOU GOD FOR GIVING US THE BEST SUPPORT SYSTEM WE COULD HAVE! FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND PEOPLE WE BARELY KNOW......WE LOVE AND APPRECIATE YOU ALL!
August 23rd: (Jason Holland posted the following)
I recieve post and updates through my blackberry all day and am very thankful for all everyones thoughts, kind words, and prayers. I'm sorry I've not responded or commented to messages but I dont' have a lot of energy right now and honestly it can be like ground hog day, over and over again.
It's been hard that last 3 months and to be honest I've kinda closed a shade over window so people can't see me or how I feel. People have suggested telling the story and not holding back hoping it will help me vent and provide insight, how did you know, how are you copeing, have you found god, how is the fight coming… Well after several of the drugs they give me and a serious lack of sleep here it is.... Well after several of the drugs they give me and a serious lack of sleep here it is.
chemo has been difficult to say the least, Depression, anxiety, feeling completing out of control and for those of you that know me it is hard to accept that something is taking over your body and you can't stop it.
I pray probably not as much as I should because I'm still very full of anger, why me, why anybody, if god gave me this then god can take it away with help of my doctors. But if god doesn't, I feel like my family and friends and I are being punished for something but don't know what. I don't like to talk or think about it that why I don’t comment much but I read every post. The post help make me smile, laugh, cry..t it that why I don't comment much but I read every post. The post help make me smile, laugh, cry
I've learned a lot about myself and others through the process and maybe that is why I was chosen to fight cancer. People are great, people come first, you can't measure the good. I WAS a finish line type person, had to be the best, and made sure others new it despite feelings or consequences. I'm NOT that person now despite how this ends.
It's all about journey and not the destination or what is waiting at the finish line. It is about how you get there and the support and caring you show along the way. ALL OF YOU HAVE PROVEN THIS TO ME OVER THE LAST 4 MONTHS. I spent about around 8 years as cop dealing with the 3% of society that you don't want to deal with and began to feel everyone was the 3%, I could not have been more wrong.
I guess all this means that my faith in you each of you makes me stronger, the selfless acts of kindness and just taking a moment of you day to think of me and my family whether you post or not reminds me how much good is out there and gives me peace knowing this good will be there long after I'm gone. I don't plan on leaving without a fight but it still gives me peace of mind and I need that every chance I can get it....eaving without a fight but it still gives me peace of mind and I need that every chance I can get it
I share all this because your my friends, people I have shared time with throughout my life and know me in different ways. But I really want you to know me now, as a father, husband, son, friend, that will put anyone before anything.
All of you taught me this. So I can say now I have had 2 life changing events Cancer and people come above all else. I needed to be grouned so God I listening and learning tonight, I' ve heard you message and seen your acts through people and I'm ready want to live.
August 23rd: (Jason Holland posted the following on Candie's FB page) Happy B-Day, you are the best wife, mother, and best friend. The defining day in my life is when you agreed to marry me and allow me to be part of your life for ever, no matter how long that is you are everything to me and our family. You are the rock!
August 17th: Jason goes for his final dose of Erbitux before going back to Texas tomorrow. I'm just trying to pray this rash away so that he feels better.
August 16th: We read an article in Florida Today about a 27 yr old man who was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. They made a big deal of the fact he has 800 friends on his FB page......they've obviously never heard of my man who's got nearly 2200!!!!! WOOT WOOT!
August 14th: Last round of chemo before Texas is making itself known around the Holland House. Trying to keep spirits up and praying it's just a matter of time before some good news is headed our way.
August 13th: Jason officially finished his FINAL round of chemo today before our trip to MD Anderson in a couple weeks. He is starting to feel the effects and has had an exhausting week. He is one driven, motivated man and I have no doubt that good news is in store for us this month! We are truly EXPECTING A MIRACLE!
August 12th: A-MAZING experience at Chik-fil-A tonite! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to Suntree Viera Youth Football League for such an AWESOME turnout at the fundraiser tonite. We feel the love and support and are proud to be a part of the SVYFL family. As Kenny Chesney says, "There's just nothing like the Boys of Fal...l!" Angie Taylor, Dawn Christian and all of the football and cheerleading coaches.....we are speechless!
August 10th: This is a fundraiser that DOESN'T COST ANYTHING! Simply post a positive comment at google.com La Starza Wellness, and Dr. La Starza will add $1.00 to the http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%
August 9th: Jason will be returning tomorrow night to clean home, clean sheets, a rested wife with paint on her toes and color in her hair! Bring it on home to me Husband!
August 7th: THANKFUL.....doesn't even begin to explain it. We have been taught soooo many valuable things throughout the last couple months. Jason and I were talking today about how we've both been shown how much good there still is in the world. Almost daily we are surprised by someone's graciousness and caring. We just can't... say it enough....THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR LOVE, PRAYERS, AND SUPPORT!
August 4th : Going to TX on Aug 23 to find out if surgery can be performed to remove 70% of Jason’s liver? Still going through chemo... last treatment before heading to TX Aug 9th. He’s weak, tired and has experienced every side effect imaginable. Pray for the ability to do the surgery!
Finished another round of Chemo on Friday and I feel that I'm bouncing back quicker and quicker with each round. I don't know if that means I'm getting use to it or if it means its not as effective as it once was. They have reduced the doseage by 25% so I'm able to work through it, I wonder if I'm gambling with my li...fe. I am so consumed with family and work that I don't spend much time thinking about it. At times you can't help but to wonder what the future holds good or bad. Looking forward to a good week.
January 13th: It's been almost 8 months since Jason was originally diagnosed and 5 surgeries and 8 rounds of chemo later everyday is still as difficult as the previous. Cancer doesn't get easier to deal with, it doesn't give you a vacation from it, it's always there. Jason has been and continues to be so strong through it all. As... time goes on, some people forget what we are going through on a daily basis and it just gets super frustrating at times. We are doing all that we can as a family to hold it all together and the smallest of things could bring the walls tumbling down. Please keep us in your prayers.
I'm just now getting over the side effects from last weeks chemo. It just now feels like a new year but in the same sentence I've been here before. You know its not the Cancer that hurts you, its the drugs they give you to fight it. I understand why people opt out of chemo and take quality of life over length of life.... You couldn't understand until you've been there. For now it is still Chemo as planned. Happy New Year?
Jason Holland December 21st:
7 months fighting cancer and I am back to work full time and feeling better everyday. I am enjoying work and realize how rewarding it is and how much I enjoy working with my clients. 8am-6pm everyday is taking its toll, I'm exhausted each night. Between work and Christmas shopping for the family it feels that there ...are not enough hours in the day. I'm starting chemo on the December 28th for another 3 months but plan on working and making it through it. Sorry for not updating or posting sooner, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.
December 4th: We've been awful with the updates lately, so I apologize to everyone. Lack of sleep, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain are Jason's main concerns right now. Seems like these are all side effects of the lack of liver, so we are just trying to remain positive. He will begin chemo again the week af...ter Christmas in order to get any cancer that the scans can't see. After 2-3 months of chemo, we will be headed back to TX to meet with thoracic surgeon regarding surgery to remove the lung tumors. Keep prayin'.
November 26th: Jason is progressing well, his incision has healed very nicely. Still lots of ups and downs with the pain and bowels, and trying to function on only 30% liver. If anybody has any high protein recipes, send'em my way! We are trying to grow us a liver people
Jason Holland November 13th:
The doctors told me today they did not think I was going to make to this 3rd surgery but didn't want to tell me and cause any emotional stress. They said they were very surprised that my liver has responded so well and it will do most of its growing over the next 3 months, so that means lots of protein and no fat diet.... Thanks for all your prayers and support. This battle is far from over but we are getting their one day at a time. I will be going back on chemo for another 3 months starting in December and then we will focus on the lungs.
Jason Holland November 13th:
I am out of the hospital and in a hotel as of this afternoon. The doctors opened up some of incision to drain the fluid out then stitched it up with 26 stitches this morning. Its not infected so everything looks good as of now. I have follow up appt in couple days then hopefully I will be released to go home to see m...y family. I am extremely home sick. I have been and still am on a lot of pain killers so I apologize for not responding to some of the posts and calls. Its really hard to maintain my focus and even complete a sentence.
November 9th: Pain city today people! Jason is doing so well in trying to be up and moving around, even though it is painful every step of the way. The incision had to be re glued today as it was popping open in places and is "leaking". He is such a trooper. Please keep the prayers coming.
November 5th: Just met with neurologist regarding a complication that developed after the surgery. Jason has suffered nerve damage, numbness, and partial paralysis in his right hand. They think this is due to the positioning they had him in for an extended period of time during the surgery. More tests to follow to determine what exactly is happening in his hand/arm.
November 5th: Wow....it's pain city here in Houston today. Jason has managed to get up and move around a little, but is feeling constant pain, nauseau, itchiness, and pain in his right arm. Surgery does strange things to your body.
November 4th: We are now in the surgical oncology ICU for the night. Jason's in alot of pain, but was coherent enough to ask me to share the pics of his newest battle scar. He is so strong. I just wish all of you could witness the strength and determination in this man for yourselves.....it's truly amazing. I'm so blessed to hav...e him as my husband and best friend
Jason Holland November 3rd:
The results are in...I am having surgery tomorrow morning that should last 6-8 hours. The cancer is stable and has not spread. This news is as good as we could have hoped for. Ultimately I am still in the fight and that feels good. I'm not ready to give up or have our hope taken away. Thanks to all your supoort and... prayers, they are apparently being heard and granted
Jason Holland November 3rd:
The trade off for all this risk, pain, and sickness from chemo is that I will get as many useful years as possible and in return I will give up my youth, taste buds, hair, strength, and my wish to grow old, and to join a seniors bowling league with my wife
Jason Holland December 21st:
7 months fighting cancer and I am back to work full time and feeling better everyday. I am enjoying work and realize how rewarding it is and how much I enjoy working with my clients. 8am-6pm everyday is taking its toll, I'm exhausted each night. Between work and Christmas shopping for the family it feels that there ...are not enough hours in the day. I'm starting chemo on the December 28th for another 3 months but plan on working and making it through it. Sorry for not updating or posting sooner, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.
December 4th: We've been awful with the updates lately, so I apologize to everyone. Lack of sleep, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain are Jason's main concerns right now. Seems like these are all side effects of the lack of liver, so we are just trying to remain positive. He will begin chemo again the week af...ter Christmas in order to get any cancer that the scans can't see. After 2-3 months of chemo, we will be headed back to TX to meet with thoracic surgeon regarding surgery to remove the lung tumors. Keep prayin'.
November 26th: Jason is progressing well, his incision has healed very nicely. Still lots of ups and downs with the pain and bowels, and trying to function on only 30% liver. If anybody has any high protein recipes, send'em my way! We are trying to grow us a liver people
Jason Holland November 13th:
The doctors told me today they did not think I was going to make to this 3rd surgery but didn't want to tell me and cause any emotional stress. They said they were very surprised that my liver has responded so well and it will do most of its growing over the next 3 months, so that means lots of protein and no fat diet.... Thanks for all your prayers and support. This battle is far from over but we are getting their one day at a time. I will be going back on chemo for another 3 months starting in December and then we will focus on the lungs.
Jason Holland November 13th:
I am out of the hospital and in a hotel as of this afternoon. The doctors opened up some of incision to drain the fluid out then stitched it up with 26 stitches this morning. Its not infected so everything looks good as of now. I have follow up appt in couple days then hopefully I will be released to go home to see m...y family. I am extremely home sick. I have been and still am on a lot of pain killers so I apologize for not responding to some of the posts and calls. Its really hard to maintain my focus and even complete a sentence.
November 9th: Pain city today people! Jason is doing so well in trying to be up and moving around, even though it is painful every step of the way. The incision had to be re glued today as it was popping open in places and is "leaking". He is such a trooper. Please keep the prayers coming.
Jason Holland December 21st:
7 months fighting cancer and I am back to work full time and feeling better everyday. I am enjoying work and realize how rewarding it is and how much I enjoy working with my clients. 8am-6pm everyday is taking its toll, I'm exhausted each night. Between work and Christmas shopping for the family it feels that there ...are not enough hours in the day. I'm starting chemo on the December 28th for another 3 months but plan on working and making it through it. Sorry for not updating or posting sooner, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.
December 4th: We've been awful with the updates lately, so I apologize to everyone. Lack of sleep, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain are Jason's main concerns right now. Seems like these are all side effects of the lack of liver, so we are just trying to remain positive. He will begin chemo again the week af...ter Christmas in order to get any cancer that the scans can't see. After 2-3 months of chemo, we will be headed back to TX to meet with thoracic surgeon regarding surgery to remove the lung tumors. Keep prayin'.
November 26th: Jason is progressing well, his incision has healed very nicely. Still lots of ups and downs with the pain and bowels, and trying to function on only 30% liver. If anybody has any high protein recipes, send'em my way! We are trying to grow us a liver people
Jason Holland November 13th:
The doctors told me today they did not think I was going to make to this 3rd surgery but didn't want to tell me and cause any emotional stress. They said they were very surprised that my liver has responded so well and it will do most of its growing over the next 3 months, so that means lots of protein and no fat diet.... Thanks for all your prayers and support. This battle is far from over but we are getting their one day at a time. I will be going back on chemo for another 3 months starting in December and then we will focus on the lungs.
Jason Holland November 13th:Jason Holland December 21st:
7 months fighting cancer and I am back to work full time and feeling better everyday. I am enjoying work and realize how rewarding it is and how much I enjoy working with my clients. 8am-6pm everyday is taking its toll, I'm exhausted each night. Between work and Christmas shopping for the family it feels that there ...are not enough hours in the day. I'm starting chemo on the December 28th for another 3 months but plan on working and making it through it. Sorry for not updating or posting sooner, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.
December 4th: We've been awful with the updates lately, so I apologize to everyone. Lack of sleep, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain are Jason's main concerns right now. Seems like these are all side effects of the lack of liver, so we are just trying to remain positive. He will begin chemo again the week af...ter Christmas in order to get any cancer that the scans can't see. After 2-3 months of chemo, we will be headed back to TX to meet with thoracic surgeon regarding surgery to remove the lung tumors. Keep prayin'.I am out of the hospital and in a hotel as of this afternoon. The doctors opened up some of incision to drain the fluid out then stitched it up with 26 stitches this morning. Its not infected so everything looks good as of now. I have follow up appt in couple days then hopefully I will be released to go home to see m...y family. I am extremely home sick. I have been and still am on a lot of pain killers so I apologize for not responding to some of the posts and calls. Its really hard to maintain my focus and even complete a sentence.
November 5th: Just met with neurologist regarding a complication that developed after the surgery. Jason has suffered nerve damage, numbness, and partial paralysis in his right hand. They think this is due to the positioning they had him in for an extended period of time during the surgery. More tests to follow to determine what exactly is happening in his hand/arm.
November 5th: Wow....it's pain city here in Houston today. Jason has managed to get up and move around a little, but is feeling constant pain, nauseau, itchiness, and pain in his right arm. Surgery does strange things to your body.
If there were ever a time to need a wish it will be today and tomorrow. I had to look my kids in the face before leaving and ask them to remember me and remember how much fun and love we share. There is a 33% chance of death following this operation. I hope no ever has to look thier family in the face and tell them ...goodbye. In the race of life I have become an unwilling finalist.
Jason Holland November 3rd:
I am meeting with the surgeons today to get the results from all my new scans. I never thought I would be saying if the results are good then surgery will follow tomorrow, you would think that if the results are good then no surgery is needed but that's not the case. Hopefully they will be removing 80% of the liver wh...ich contains all the cancer, if the cancer has spread to the good portion then there is nothing more they can do. So many emotions are running through me right now.
Nothing new to report, I am just counting down the days to the final liver surgery which is in about a week. This will be last procedure on the liver and they will be removing about 80% of the liver. The minimum to sustain life is 20% and then hopefully it will grow back cancer free. I will not know for sure if they... can do the surgery until they run all new scans and if everything is okay the surgery will follow the next day or so
Jason Holland October 10th:
We are having some good days which are turning into some good weeks. Enjoying Brock's football and Bella's cheerleading, its almost like we forgot about everything that is happening....You can get busy living or get busy dying and we choose the LIVING!
October 3rd: Home from the ER visit last night. Much better today, thank goodness. It's like a rollar coaster this ride we are on.
I want everyone to know that I posted this information directly from the American Cancer Society website to educate people about this disease. I do not feel defeated or depressed based on this information, actually it's quite the opposite. I want people to know this disease can affect anyone at any age, not just 50+; ...in fact, it will affect 1 in 19 people on average. I will make it through this and I want as many people as possible to know how common and deadly this disease is as it doesn't get as much press as Breast or Lung or other types of cancer. But, it is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed and the 2nd leading cause of cancer related deaths. It can be found early and it can be 100% preventable. Don't wait for symptoms to appear to get checked, it will be too late at that point. Don't let doctors tell you that you're too young to worry because I'm living proof that's not true. Just educate yourself. I just want to bring awareness.
Jason Holland September 23rd:
Colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the U.S. The American Cancer Society's most recent estimates for the number of colorectal cancer cases in the U.S. are for 2010:102,900 new cases of colon cancer 49,470 in men and 53,430 in women the lifetime risk in men for developing c...olorectal cancer is about 1 in 19 (5.2%). This risk is slightly lower in women 1 in 20. Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer when both sexes are combined. It is expected to cause about 51,370 deaths (26,580 in men and 24,790 in women) during 2010.
Jason Holland September 23rd:
5-year Survival Rate
by Stage 1 74%,
2A 67%,
2B 59%,
2C 37%,
...3A 73%,
3B 46%,
3C 28%,
4 6%. I have stage 4, 6% survival rate 6,000 out of 100,000 people diagnosed are still alive 5 years after being diagnosed. A colonoscopy can quickly diagnose this disease and if found early this is preventable. I had a change in bowel movement and sense of urgency to go but never really had anything pass and still felt the need to go, bleeding, and stomach cramps. These symtoms only occur with advanced stages. I ignored these symptoms for about 6 months thus giving the cancer plenty of time to spread to my liver and lungs.
September 21st: Liver Surgery #2 completed and went well. No surprises, but lots of pain and discomfort as they went in on his right side, through his ribs to get to the main vein in the liver. Our focus right now is growing that liver
September 20th: Back at the hotel with a husband who is in alot of pain, nauseated, and irritated. So far, liver surgery #2, so good.
I recieve post and updates through my blackberry all day and am very thankful for all everyones thoughts, kind words, and prayers. I'm sorry I've not responded or commented to messages but I dont' have a lot of energy right now and honestly it can be like ground hog day, over and over again.
It's been hard that last 3 months and to be honest I've kinda closed a shade over window so people can't see me or how I feel. People have suggested telling the story and not holding back hoping it will help me vent and provide insight, how did you know, how are you copeing, have you found god, how is the fight coming… Well after several of the drugs they give me and a serious lack of sleep here it is.... Well after several of the drugs they give me and a serious lack of sleep here it is.
chemo has been difficult to say the least, Depression, anxiety, feeling completing out of control and for those of you that know me it is hard to accept that something is taking over your body and you can't stop it.
I pray probably not as much as I should because I'm still very full of anger, why me, why anybody, if god gave me this then god can take it away with help of my doctors. But if god doesn't, I feel like my family and friends and I are being punished for something but don't know what. I don't like to talk or think about it that why I don’t comment much but I read every post. The post help make me smile, laugh, cry..t it that why I don't comment much but I read every post. The post help make me smile, laugh, cry
I've learned a lot about myself and others through the process and maybe that is why I was chosen to fight cancer. People are great, people come first, you can't measure the good. I WAS a finish line type person, had to be the best, and made sure others new it despite feelings or consequences. I'm NOT that person now despite how this ends.
It's all about journey and not the destination or what is waiting at the finish line. It is about how you get there and the support and caring you show along the way. ALL OF YOU HAVE PROVEN THIS TO ME OVER THE LAST 4 MONTHS. I spent about around 8 years as cop dealing with the 3% of society that you don't want to deal with and began to feel everyone was the 3%, I could not have been more wrong.
I guess all this means that my faith in you each of you makes me stronger, the selfless acts of kindness and just taking a moment of you day to think of me and my family whether you post or not reminds me how much good is out there and gives me peace knowing this good will be there long after I'm gone. I don't plan on leaving without a fight but it still gives me peace of mind and I need that every chance I can get it....eaving without a fight but it still gives me peace of mind and I need that every chance I can get it
I share all this because your my friends, people I have shared time with throughout my life and know me in different ways. But I really want you to know me now, as a father, husband, son, friend, that will put anyone before anything.
All of you taught me this. So I can say now I have had 2 life changing events Cancer and people come above all else. I needed to be grouned so God I listening and learning tonight, I' ve heard you message and seen your acts through people and I'm ready want to live.
August 23rd: (Jason Holland posted the following on Candie's FB page) Happy B-Day, you are the best wife, mother, and best friend. The defining day in my life is when you agreed to marry me and allow me to be part of your life for ever, no matter how long that is you are everything to me and our family. You are the rock!
August 17th: Jason goes for his final dose of Erbitux before going back to Texas tomorrow. I'm just trying to pray this rash away so that he feels better.
August 16th: We read an article in Florida Today about a 27 yr old man who was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. They made a big deal of the fact he has 800 friends on his FB page......they've obviously never heard of my man who's got nearly 2200!!!!! WOOT WOOT!
August 14th: Last round of chemo before Texas is making itself known around the Holland House. Trying to keep spirits up and praying it's just a matter of time before some good news is headed our way.
August 13th: Jason officially finished his FINAL round of chemo today before our trip to MD Anderson in a couple weeks. He is starting to feel the effects and has had an exhausting week. He is one driven, motivated man and I have no doubt that good news is in store for us this month! We are truly EXPECTING A MIRACLE!
August 12th: A-MAZING experience at Chik-fil-A tonite! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to Suntree Viera Youth Football League for such an AWESOME turnout at the fundraiser tonite. We feel the love and support and are proud to be a part of the SVYFL family. As Kenny Chesney says, "There's just nothing like the Boys of Fal...l!" Angie Taylor, Dawn Christian and all of the football and cheerleading coaches.....we are speechless!
August 10th: This is a fundraiser that DOESN'T COST ANYTHING! Simply post a positive comment at google.com La Starza Wellness, and Dr. La Starza will add $1.00 to the http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%
August 9th: Jason will be returning tomorrow night to clean home, clean sheets, a rested wife with paint on her toes and color in her hair! Bring it on home to me Husband!
August 7th: THANKFUL.....doesn't even begin to explain it. We have been taught soooo many valuable things throughout the last couple months. Jason and I were talking today about how we've both been shown how much good there still is in the world. Almost daily we are surprised by someone's graciousness and caring. We just can't... say it enough....THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR LOVE, PRAYERS, AND SUPPORT!
August 4th : Going to TX on Aug 23 to find out if surgery can be performed to remove 70% of Jason’s liver? Still going through chemo... last treatment before heading to TX Aug 9th. He’s weak, tired and has experienced every side effect imaginable. Pray for the ability to do the surgery!
I recieve post and updates through my blackberry all day and am very thankful for all everyones thoughts, kind words, and prayers. I'm sorry I've not responded or commented to messages but I dont' have a lot of energy right now and honestly it can be like ground hog day, over and over again.
It's been hard that last 3 months and to be honest I've kinda closed a shade over window so people can't see me or how I feel. People have suggested telling the story and not holding back hoping it will help me vent and provide insight, how did you know, how are you copeing, have you found god, how is the fight coming… Well after several of the drugs they give me and a serious lack of sleep here it is.... Well after several of the drugs they give me and a serious lack of sleep here it is.
chemo has been difficult to say the least, Depression, anxiety, feeling completing out of control and for those of you that know me it is hard to accept that something is taking over your body and you can't stop it.
I pray probably not as much as I should because I'm still very full of anger, why me, why anybody, if god gave me this then god can take it away with help of my doctors. But if god doesn't, I feel like my family and friends and I are being punished for something but don't know what. I don't like to talk or think about it that why I don’t comment much but I read every post. The post help make me smile, laugh, cry..t it that why I don't comment much but I read every post. The post help make me smile, laugh, cry
I've learned a lot about myself and others through the process and maybe that is why I was chosen to fight cancer. People are great, people come first, you can't measure the good. I WAS a finish line type person, had to be the best, and made sure others new it despite feelings or consequences. I'm NOT that person now despite how this ends.
It's all about journey and not the destination or what is waiting at the finish line. It is about how you get there and the support and caring you show along the way. ALL OF YOU HAVE PROVEN THIS TO ME OVER THE LAST 4 MONTHS. I spent about around 8 years as cop dealing with the 3% of society that you don't want to deal with and began to feel everyone was the 3%, I could not have been more wrong.
I guess all this means that my faith in you each of you makes me stronger, the selfless acts of kindness and just taking a moment of you day to think of me and my family whether you post or not reminds me how much good is out there and gives me peace knowing this good will be there long after I'm gone. I don't plan on leaving without a fight but it still gives me peace of mind and I need that every chance I can get it....eaving without a fight but it still gives me peace of mind and I need that every chance I can get it
I share all this because your my friends, people I have shared time with throughout my life and know me in different ways. But I really want you to know me now, as a father, husband, son, friend, that will put anyone before anything.
All of you taught me this. So I can say now I have had 2 life changing events Cancer and people come above all else. I needed to be grouned so God I listening and learning tonight, I' ve heard you message and seen your acts through people and I'm ready want to live.
August 4th : Wow... what a week it has been so far and we’re only halfway through. Jason is extraordinarily weak and tired from the chemo. It is definitely taking it’s toll on him both mentally and physically. Although it is the hardest thing we’ve been through, it’s amazing to watch and be a part of the strength and the fight he has in him.
July 31st : Chemo has taken it all out of Jason this week. He is EXTREMELY weak and doesn’t feel like doing much of anything.
July 27th : Lots of sleepy time for our celebrity Jason today. Chemo is taking the strength out of him (hopefully it’s doing that to the cancer too)! He’s eating well, as long as it’s cold food or drink. Everyday we are reminded in different ways by different people that we are supported by sooooo many wonderful people. Thank you to Missy & Garrett Lamp for dinner this week, thank you to Tammie Stepnicka for AALWAYS being what I need when I need it, the Dedmonds and Kings for all your fundraising efforts in Jacksonville, and to my wonderful husband for fighting like hell and bringing all of these amazing people together!
July 26th : Ding...ding...ding...ding.....now entering the ring, fighting out of the blue corner, weighing in at 240 pounds, from his hometown of Jacksonville, NC..........JJJJJAAAASSSONN HOOOOOLLLLLLANDDDDD! Chemo Round #4......let’s get it on!
July 26th : Chemo Round #4 starts in the morning .... only one more after this one and we will be headed back to MD Anderson in Houston on August 22nd
August 4th : Wow... what a week it has been so far and we’re only halfway through. Jason is extraordinarily weak and tired from the chemo. It is definitely taking it’s toll on him both mentally and physically. Although it is the hardest thing we’ve been through, it’s amazing to watch and be a part of the strength and the fight he has in him.
July 31st : Chemo has taken it all out of Jason this week. He is EXTREMELY weak and doesn’t feel like doing much of anything.
July 27th : Lots of sleepy time for our celebrity Jason today. Chemo is taking the strength out of him (hopefully it’s doing that to the cancer too)! He’s eating well, as long as it’s cold food or drink. Everyday we are reminded in different ways by different people that we are supported by sooooo many wonderful people. Thank you to Missy & Garrett Lamp for dinner this week, thank you to Tammie Stepnicka for AALWAYS being what I need when I need it, the Dedmonds and Kings for all your fundraising efforts in Jacksonville, and to my wonderful husband for fighting like hell and bringing all of these amazing people together!
July 26th : Ding...ding...ding...ding.....now entering the ring, fighting out of the blue corner, weighing in at 240 pounds, from his hometown of Jacksonville, NC..........JJJJJAAAASSSONN HOOOOOLLLLLLANDDDDD! Chemo Round #4......let’s get it on!
July 26th : Chemo Round #4 starts in the morning .... only one more after this one and we will be headed back to MD Anderson in Houston on August 22nd
July 25th : So thankful to have friends and family who just want to “fix” things for us. We’ve been shown so much love, patience, and support over the past two months. We love you all!
July 20th : Jason was able to get out of the house today and go to watch Brock's football practice for the first time this season. It was good to feel "normal" with him beside at the field.
July 19th : Jason just had to have sesame chicken with fried rice and an egg roll for dinner tonite. This is what his fortune cookie said, “Angels are among us, when you find them, cherish their presence everyday.” I couldn’t have said it better myself and we do cherish each and every on of them!
July 19th : Second round of Erbitux today and no allergic reaction....YAY for small miracles! Jason has a severe rash from
his chest up, but is getting some of his strength back from last week and definately has an appetite. It was a heavy mail day today and he just loves reading through all of the well wishes. Mom-Mom and Popa... (my grandparents) get the card award for the day for quoting the country song, "God makes corn, corn makes whiskey, whiskey makes my baby feel a little frisky!" in their card! Jason got quite the kick out of that and the fact that Popa changed the price on the back of the card to $18.91! HA!
July 18th : We have had an exhausting week and Jason's side effects are really getting the best of him. He goes back again tomorrow for the new drug that he is now getting weekly EVERY Monday. We did find out that we will be headed back to MD Anderson in TX on August 22nd for updated scans, bloodwork, etc. They will tell us on August 25th if they are able to do the liver surgery, and if so, they will be doing it before the end of August! We heard an awesome message in church today from our guest preacher Brian Burgess, who was visiting from NC. Are you a Reactor or a Responder? Our trials in life are a matter of life in death.ugust 25th if they are able to do the liver surgery, and if so, they will be doing it before the end of August! We heard an awesome message in church today from our guest preacher Brian Burgess, who was visiting from NC. Are you a Reactor or a Responder? Our trials in life are a matter of life in death.ugust 25th if they are able to do the liver surgery, and if so, they will be doing it before the end of August! We heard an awesome message in church today from our guest preacher Brian Burgess, who was visiting from NC. Are you a Reactor or a Responder? Our trials in life are a matter of life in death
July 15th : FB world you are keeping me strong....keep bringin' it. Daddy took Jason to the IV center again today for more steriods and fluids. He's extremely weak and spirits are low, but we WILL GET THRU THIS! Thank you to Fran Carter and family tonite for the delicious dinner you had delivered. What a blessing!
July 14th : Jason is having an allergic reaction to the new drug they introduced along with his chemo on Monday. We went back today and they gave him iv steriods to try to combat the reaction. He has to go back again tomorrow for the same. He's in so much pain and it makes my heart hurt that I can't take it all away for him. Most of the time I’m pretty upbeat, but I just gotta let it out tonite….CHEMO WEEK SUX!
July 12th : Today was a tough day for Jason. He and Jason Dedmond conquered chemo together today. The nurses put them in a corner (I have a feeling she knew they would act up!!). They added a new drug to Jason's chemo beginning today that he will have to get weekly (even on his "off"week). He had a reaction to the drug, broke out in hives, and had severe leg pain. They stopped the drip and gave him some pain meds and steroids to help the hives. The Jason’s were in the chemo room for NINE HOURS STRAIGHT! Jason is resting comfortably now, trying to get prepared for what tomorrow brings. Shout out to Jason Dedmond for being the only person (besides me) to brave chemo (as treacherous as it was) and he did a wonderful job of keeping the mood light, laughter in the air, and interrupting the nurses with other patients when necessary! Thanks Jason and Melissa we love and miss you guys already!out in hives, and had severe leg pain. They stopped the drip and gave him some pain meds and steriods to help the hives. The Jason's were in the chemo room for NINE HOURS STRAIGHT! Jason is resting comfortably now, trying to get prepared for what tomorrow brings. Shout out to Jason Dedmond for being the only person (besides me) to brave chemo (as trecherous as it was) and he did a wonderful job of keeping the mood light, laughter in the air, and interupting the nurses with other patients when necessary! Thanks Jason and Melissa we love and miss you guys already!
July 11th : Enjoying a lazy Sunday with the Dedmonds. Chemo starts again tomorrow, so we are hydrating and feeding Jason to get him ready. The two Jasons' (Holland
July 20th : Jason was able to get out of the house today and go to watch Brock's football practice for the first time this season. It was good to feel "normal" with him beside at the field.
July 19th : Jason just had to have sesame chicken with fried rice and an egg roll for dinner tonite. This is what his fortune cookie said, “Angels are among us, when you find them, cherish their presence everyday.” I couldn’t have said it better myself and we do cherish each and every on of them!
July 19th : Second round of Erbitux today and no allergic reaction....YAY for small miracles! Jason has a severe rash from
his chest up, but is getting some of his strength back from last week and definately has an appetite. It was a heavy mail day today and he just loves reading through all of the well wishes. Mom-Mom and Popa... (my grandparents) get the card award for the day for quoting the country song, "God makes corn, corn makes whiskey, whiskey makes my baby feel a little frisky!" in their card! Jason got quite the kick out of that and the fact that Popa changed the price on the back of the card to $18.91! HA! July 14th : Jason is having an allergic reaction to the new drug they introduced along with his chemo on Monday. We went back today and they gave him iv steriods to try to combat the reaction. He has to go back again tomorrow for the same. He's in so much pain and it makes my heart hurt that I can't take it all away for him. Most of the time I’m pretty upbeat, but I just gotta let it out tonite….CHEMO WEEK SUX! July 12th : Today was a tough day for Jason. He and Jason Dedmond conquered chemo together today. The nurses put them in a corner (I have a feeling she knew they would act up!!). They added a new drug to Jason's chemo beginning today that he will have to get weekly (even on his "off"week). He had a reaction to the drug, broke out in hives, and had severe leg pain. They stopped the drip and gave him some pain meds and steroids to help the hives. The Jason’s were in the chemo room for NINE HOURS STRAIGHT! Jason is resting comfortably now, trying to get prepared for what tomorrow brings. Shout out to Jason Dedmond for being the only person (besides me) to brave chemo (as treacherous as it was) and he did a wonderful job of keeping the mood light, laughter in the air, and interrupting the nurses with other patients when necessary! Thanks Jason and Melissa we love and miss you guys already!out in hives, and had severe leg pain. They stopped the drip and gave him some pain meds and steriods to help the hives. The Jason's were in the chemo room for NINE HOURS STRAIGHT! Jason is resting comfortably now, trying to get prepared for what tomorrow brings. Shout out to Jason Dedmond for being the only person (besides me) to brave chemo (as trecherous as it was) and he did a wonderful job of keeping the mood light, laughter in the air, and interupting the nurses with other patients when necessary! Thanks Jason and Melissa we love and miss you guys already!
July 18th : We have had an exhausting week and Jason's side effects are really getting the best of him. He goes back again tomorrow for the new drug that he is now getting weekly EVERY Monday. We did find out that we will be headed back to MD Anderson in TX on August 22nd for updated scans, bloodwork, etc. They will tell us on August 25th if they are able to do the liver surgery, and if so, they will be doing it before the end of August! We heard an awesome message in church today from our guest preacher Brian Burgess, who was visiting from NC. Are you a Reactor or a Responder? Our trials in life are a matter of life in death.ugust 25th if they are able to do the liver surgery, and if so, they will be doing it before the end of August! We heard an awesome message in church today from our guest preacher Brian Burgess, who was visiting from NC. Are you a Reactor or a Responder? Our trials in life are a matter of life in death.ugust 25th if they are able to do the liver surgery, and if so, they will be doing it before the end of August! We heard an awesome message in church today from our guest preacher Brian Burgess, who was visiting from NC. Are you a Reactor or a Responder? Our trials in life are a matter of life in death
July 15th : FB world you are keeping me strong....keep bringin' it. Daddy took Jason to the IV center again today for more steriods and fluids. He's extremely weak and spirits are low, but we WILL GET THRU THIS! Thank you to Fran Carter and family tonite for the delicious dinner you had delivered. What a blessing!
July 11th : Enjoying a lazy Sunday with the Dedmonds. Chemo starts again tomorrow, so we are hydrating and feeding Jason to get him ready. The two Jasons' (
July 5th : Spent quality time with the family today.....took the kids to watch Toy Story 3 with Nana and Pop Pop. Jason is on the up swing. Eating ok, no nausea, and ready to enjoy his "off" week. (Week without chemo) Got to get ready for the festivities with the Dedmonds beginning Thursday!!!!
July 3rd : Jason has been struggling since Wednesday this week. He's really weak and tired. Let's pray for energy and strength this 4th of July!
July 1st : Tough day for J. Chemo week is the worst. It has been a blessing to have such good longtime friends here with us for part of the last week. Ryan and Beth, Chase and Peyton, you have helped keep a smile on Jason's face (especially you Chase)! Thank you for the "big head pictures of Uncle Jason"!
June 30th : (Jason Holland posted the following) Chemo, day 3. it's really hard today, alot of cramping, nauseous, reality is setting in today. So tired and in pain. THIS SUCKS! Can't wait till next week, the off week to feel alive again.
June 29th : 2nd day of 2nd chemo.....things are good. Jason is extremely tired and already in bed for the night. He hasn't been nauseous, but has had constant hiccups, heartburn, and trouble drinking, eating, and touching cold things. He actually went to work today while he was getting his chemo....what an amazing man I'm married to!
June 28th : Today is Chemo Round #2. It has been a completely different experience than the first time was. Jason will be on chemo for the next 2 days and hasn't been sick, or nauseous at all. Prayers sent that chemo is doing it's job and working hard!
